A SEAFRONT attraction has rescued monkeys from a fate of death row at an Italian laboratory.

Sea Life Adventure, on Eastern Esplanade, Southend, has opened the exhibit for its newest additions.

The crab-eating macaques were due to be destroyed, but have now become a popular attraction at their new wildlife enclosure at Sea Life.

Whilst in Italy, the group had been used for breeding and medical testing.

They were kept in confined conditions and tattooed with serial numbers.

The macaques stayed at a wildlife centre in Belgium until their new enclosure was finished.

Centre bosses said the new £500,000 purpose-built home has been built to the highest health, safety and animal welfare requirements so they can spend the rest of their lives being well looked after in a spacious enclosure.

Spokesman Marc Miller, managing director of the Stockvale Group who owns Sea-Life Adventure said: “This has been a real labour of love to get this fabulous enclosure ready in time and a massive well done to the whole team who have worked around the clock to achieve this.

“We are sure our new friends will be a big hit with all our visitors and we advise people to get here early during half term to grab a parking space.

“We’re now planning phase three of ‘Wild’ for 2019, with exciting surprises in store.”

The exhibit opened to the members public on Saturday October 20.